HC Deb 11 July 1950 vol 477 cc1150-1
61. Sir William Darling

asked the President of the Board of Trade what is the relative dollar-earning capacity of pottery, cotton, motor cars, Scotch whisky and tobacco.

Mr. Bottomley

Recorded exports to the dollar area during January to May, 1950, expressed in terms of United States dollars were: pottery (i.e., china and earthenware) 7.7 million dollars, cotton yarns and manufactures 12.3 million dollars, cars 29.5 million dollars, whisky 19.1 million dollars, and tobacco 0.089 million dollars. The figure for whisky includes Scotch and Irish whisky which are not separately recorded in the Trade Accounts.

Sir W. Darling

Will the hon. Member bear in mind the relative capital equipment of these important industries and indicate to the House the view that Scotch whisky is the best dollar-earner which this country has?

Mr. Bottomley

We always have in mind the relative importance of these industries.